Queensland exploration leading the way

QUEENSLAND is set to become the leading Australian state for resource exploration investment, says Natural Resources and Mines Minister Andrew Cripps.

Speaking at the Queensland Exploration Council breakfast this morning, Cripps said that the Newman government was working alongside the resources sector to come good on its promise to grow resources as a pillar of its economy.

“We are committed, through our ResourcesQ partnership with industry, to develop a 30-year vision and action plan to grow a robust resources sector that will continue to deliver significant economic benefits for Queensland communities”, he said.

A report released by the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Exploration, a panel set up by Cripps in October, reported in order to enhance the state’s exploration, the Newman government needed to follow through with its election promises.

Cripps has vowed to reform the resources sector by cutting red tape in orderto attract big investment to the state.

Cripps said the report provided 18 recommendations across nine areas.

“The committee has advised the government to make more land available for exploration, deliver more high-level, world class geoscience and grow and expand incentives to support greenfield exploration,” he said.

“There were also strong messages to cut exploration costs by streamlining exploration permit regulations and examining further opportunities to minimise costs to industry and I’m pleased to say the government has already acted on some of the committee’s advice”.

The Association of Mining and Exploration Companies CEO Simon Bennison welcomed the news.

“Queensland now has an opportunity to promote itself as a destination for exploration investment. By showing support for the exploration sector, the Queensland Government is investing in a strong and prosperous future for the state’s mining sector,” he said.

“This will provide jobs and investment, and Government revenue streams for the benefit of all Queenslanders.”

The report was also welcomed by the Queensland Resources Council.

“With the minister now is a comprehensive reform agenda to reinvigorate investment confidence in Queensland exploration and we are looking forward to working closely with him and his department on its implementation,” QRC CEO Michael Roche said.

“In Andrew Cripps, the government has a Mines Minister who clearly ‘gets it’ with respect to the essential role that exploration plays in underwriting the economic future for Queensland.”